ASUS C90S Whitebook

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Introduction and Specifications

When it comes to mobile computing, a major detractor for many enthusiasts is their limited ability to upgrade components. Typically, the hard drive and memory are readily accessible, but when it comes to graphics and other components, often times you are locked into the manufacturer's factory configuration or have to jump through hoops just to gain access to certain parts, let alone upgrade them. This can be a major strike against mobile computing, as many users prefer the upgrade potential of a desktop PC, knowing that their investment can be easily updated in the future if the need arises. Some user upgradeable options have begun to appear in the mobile space, however, like the product we'll be showcasing today, the ASUS C90S Whitebook.

The ASUS C90S is a notebook that you can't buy directly from ASUS. Instead, this model is marketed as a 'whitebook' to various retailers who can configure it in various ways. The unit can be purchased as a barebones system with no OS installed, or can come pre-configured with various flavors of Windows Vista and a myriad of hardware components. In fact, the C90S has been seen on the market in many forms, including a completely stripped-down configuration to being outfitted with all of the latest hardware it can support.

The biggest draw for a notebook of this nature is that ASUS designed it to be easily upgraded in the future. Through a smart layout and easy access, the C90S allows for complete upgrading, including Memory, CPU, Wireless Ethernet, Hard Drive, Optical Drive and Graphics. This is a notebook geared as a desktop equivalent with the flexibility to grow with future technology releases. In the pages ahead, we'll assess the upgrade potential of the C90S, from its access to components to usability and ultimately performance.

Support Operating SystemGenuine Windows Vista® Home Premium,Genuine Windows Vista® Ultimate,Genuine Windows Vista® Business*Pre-installed Operating system varies in each region, some may not even have an OS pre-installed.

ChipsetIntel® 945 G Chipset + ICH7

Main Memory2 SO-DIMM Sockets for Expansion Up to 3GBSupport up to 3GB Dual Channel DDRII 533/667MHz SDRAM